Defining the Polish Space Policy: In Search of Technological Niches for the Emerging National Space Sector

M. Kamassa (2018), JBIS, 71, pp.268-272

Abstract:After the years of preparation and setting of developmental priorities for its growing national space industry, in February
2017 Poland has adopted its first full-fledged sectoral strategy. This was the pivotal result of the lengthy adjustment
process for the Polish state and economy to the conditions of effective activity within the regional and global space
market. The main pattern for its development became the strengthening correlation and cooperation with the European
Space Agency. The crucial waypoint on this path was Polish membership in ESA, accepted in November 2012. Gradually,
it allowed local research centres and companies to access all of the available European space programs and missions.
Simultaneously, internal bridging solutions were implemented in Poland. One of them was the creation of the Polish Space
Agency in 2014. The implementation of Polish Space Strategy is expected to increase Poland’s share of the European
space market to at least 3% of its overall turnover before the end of 2030. It assumes sustainable development in both
upstream and downstream areas, with increased Polish involvement not only in the ESA sectoral programs but also in
those of the European Union, EUMETSAT and European Defence Agency. The purpose of this study is to identify the
scope of a possible contribution Polish space industry could provide on the European and global level. This involves the
recognition of industrial niches considered available for Polish sectoral entities – with emphasis on the production of
miniaturised satellite components (including optoelectronic and radar equipment) and super light orbital platforms..